Authorities in Ghana’s Northern region have issued a heightened alert following notifications from Burkina Faso regarding a possible release of water from the Bagre Dam. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) confirmed that communities along the White Volta Basin have been placed on alert, prompted by Burkina Faso’s initial notification on Monday, August 11, 2026, indicating a potential spill. Chief Disaster Control Officer, Mr Idresu Abdubakari Ziblim, stated that the decision to halt the spill was contingent upon relatively low rainfall upstream, a factor that significantly impacts the Bagre Dam’s water levels. He explained that the initial rainfall data suggests that the Kompienga Dam, feeding the Bagre Dam, is currently sufficient to sustain the dam’s capacity, but the Bagre Dam remains below its critical threshold for spillage of 234.15 metres. The level at 233.08 metres as of Sunday, August 10, remained unchanged, confirming the dam’s continued status at 1.92 metres below the threshold, a level NADMO has been monitoring closely since August 10th. Mr. Ziblim further highlighted that 68 communities have been notified, with district staff collaborating with Information Services and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies. A rapid response team, comprised of outboard motors from the 51st Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces, is prepositioned at Walewale in the West Mamprusi area, tasked with accessing isolated communities that may be cut off by flooding. Emergency teams, including the Ghana Red Cross and Ghana National Fire Service, are also on standby, ensuring swift emergency response capabilities. Furthermore, authorities have intensified health preparations, including the replenishment of anti-snake venom and medical supplies, due to the increased risk of snake and scorpion bites associated with flooding. NADMO has distributed Aquatabs donated by World Vision to residents to disinfect drinking water, and has alerted the Ghana Health Service to replenish anti-snakebites, as well as cholera and waterborne diseases, which could result from contamination. The Ghana Air Force has prepositioned a team of 51th Regiment personnel at Walewale, equipped with outboard motors, to facilitate rapid access to affected communities. Past Bagre Dam incidents have revealed a significant loss of life, highlighting the importance of proactive preparedness. NADMO has urged Burkina Faso authorities to ensure any release of water is controlled and has appealed to them to take steps to mitigate the potential impact on the Upper West, Upper East, North East, and Savanna regions. Farmers and livestock owners are advised to move to higher ground, and farmers with mature crops are encouraged to harvest them where possible. NADMO has also distributed supplies to the Tamale International Airport to facilitate the rapid airlift of essential supplies to affected communities. NADMO has reviewed past incidents and is focusing on the current situation, emphasizing the need for vigilance and adherence to official instructions. The Ghana government has recorded no casualties from last year’s flooding, attributing this to joint monitoring and assessment efforts by relevant stakeholders.”
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Source: MyJoyOnline
